Chiefs appoints Colin Cooper as successor to Dave Rennie as head coach of the Super Rugby team

Maori All Blacks and Taranaki boss Cooper will take charge of the Hamilton-based franchise at the end of the 2017 season, when Rennie departs to start his reign as Glasgow Warriors head coach.

Former Hurricanes head coach Cooper, who can boast a flawless record with the Maori All Blacks since his appointment three years ago, will lead Taranaki in the Mitre 10 Cup next year before taking up his new position.

The announcement comes just a day after British and Irish Lions and Wales head coach Warren Gatland revealed he turned down the chance to replace Rennie.